Why XRP Is Outperforming Bitcoin and Ethereum in 2026

The post Why XRP Is Outperforming Bitcoin and Ethereum in 2026 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

XRP has emerged as one of the hottest crypto trades of the year, even outperforming giant Bitcoin & Ethereum in performance and becoming the 3rd-largest cryptocurrency by market cap. 

Since the start of the year, XRP has climbed more than 20%, briefly trading near $2.40. What stands out is not just the price move, but the reason behind it.

XRP as a “Less Crowded Trade”

Speaking on CNBC, journalist Mackenzie Sagalos explained that XRP benefited from a shift in investor mindset during late 2025. She noted that many traders treated XRP as a “buy-the-dip” opportunity rather than a momentum trade. 

With Bitcoin becoming more stable and crowded, traders were clearly hunting for assets with higher upside potential, and XRP fit that profile well.

This strategy paid off quickly. In early January, XRP jumped as new buyers entered, while selling stayed low. Institutional interest also played a key role, with steady money flowing into XRP ETFs during a quiet period.

Since the launch of the XRP ETF, total inflows have reached around $1.62 billion, showing sustained confidence from large investors.

CNBC declares $XRP the HOTTEST crypto trade of 2026